The big news for Ram power is that the Dodge Ram 1500 may be getting a two-mode hybrid system in 2010. This will expand Ram buyers' choices to three gasoline, the HEMI hybrid and also a new Cummins turbodiesel engine coming after 2009. The gasoline options include an all-new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8, that delivers a 4 percent increase in fuel economy for 2009 while producing 380 horsepower and 404 lb.-ft. of torque, a new for 2008 4.7-liter flex-fuel V-8, that resulted in an increase in fuel economy while producing 310 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft. of torque, and a 3.7-liter V-6 that generates 215 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque. Having this many options will likely boost sales as this will help cover a broader market, including those who are looking for a ?greener? vehicle, and, although the truck industry has found a may to greatly improve the fuel efficiency of pickup trucks, no truck has yet to be called ?green?. The Ram would likely use the hybrid powerplant that the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango have used. The two-mode hybrid system provides assistance from electric motors allowing the HEMI V-8 to remain in four- cylinder mode more often than without a hybrid powertrain, improving overall fuel economy. The hybrid and diesel engines are expected to meet 50- state emissions standards, and will deliver a 30-percent fuel economy improvement.

The 2010 Dodge Ram, available in fall 2009, will continue to use the previous generation?s proven chassis and frame, but with more comfort, higher capabilities, and more body options. The ride was greatly improved through re-tuned suspension components; handling under a full load was also beefed up, while the gross vehicle weight rating increased by 600 lb to 9,600 pounds. Fluid-filled hydro-mounts under the cab reduce beaming and bounce over rough surfaces. Ram 1500's multi-link coil suspension makes a lot of sense for light-duty trucks; it doesn't in the heavy-duty segment. Dodge's current strategy gears the 2500/3500 trucks for maximum towing and hauling, so the traditional leaf springs will remain on these models.    

Dodge has replaced the Quad Cab with a crew cab, which joins the regular and Mega cabs. There are two cargo-box sizes (6-foot-4-inches and 8 feet)in single and dual-rear-wheel configurations. Even the chassis cabs come in a crew cab version. The new for 2009 feature, RamBox, should continue to be available on the crew cab. It features integrated, lockable storage boxes on each side of the bed. These boxes basically take up the awkward space around the wheel wells, leaving a clean, rectangular cargo bed. The crew cab also features in-floor storage near the second-row seats.

As the focus on the 2010 Ram is most certainly powertrain improvements, the Ram interior will likely be similar from the previous year, with some minor adjustments. Dodge now offers more amenities, including premium seating with soft-touch materials and a console-mounted shifter. The seats' stylish full-width contrasting stitching comes on the Sport and Laramie trims. Overall, the modern interior is a noticeable and welcome improvement over the capable but uninspired passenger cabs of the past.    

It will be an exciting day when the Ram Hybrid is rolled out, and it will be interesting to see how consumers respond to it. While the Dodge Ram 1500 is aimed at the primary users of light-duty pickups ? people who do not routinely tow or haul heavy loads, but need the space or shape for other reasons ? the Ram Heavy Duty is aimed at commercial and fleet users, the primary buyers of serious, diesel-powered pickups and chassis cabs. The all-new 2010 Dodge Ram will be built in two locations: Quad Cab and Ram Crew 1500 models will be built at the Warren (Mich.) Assembly Plant, and regular cab and Ram Crew 1500 models will be built at the St. Louis North Assembly Plan in Fenton, Mo. Need more information? Read another Dodge Ram review by Motor Trend.